Septic system failure can create a number of unexpected costs for homeowners. Even for simple drain and pump procedures, the ongoing costs of repeated maintenance can be prohibitive. Full replacements of septic systems can be even more costly and can lead to increased costs due to governmental regulations regarding these replacements. County health departments and state authorities may require annual inspections or mandatory maintenance in order to allow homeowners to continue using these septic systems, often at significant expense to the household budget.

The High Cost of Replacement

In many cases, alternatives to replacement can save homeowners thousands of dollars and extend the useful life of their existing septic system. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates the average cost of septic system replacement to range between $3,000 and $7,000 based on a survey done in 1999. In fact, most experts estimate the current cost of septic tank replacement at closer to $6,000 on the low end. Difficult or complicated replacements can cost as much as $50,000, especially if a new drain and leach field installation is required. The cost of replacement doesn’t end with the initial installation; in a number of localities, the new installation may be subject to environmental controls and examinations that can add even more to the overall costs. Fortunately, many septic tank problems can be remediated effectively without the expense of full replacement costs.

Money-Saving Alternatives

For mild septic issues, pumping and minor repairs may be enough to salvage the system for some time. However, these are short-term solutions at best and do not address the underlying problems that caused the failure in the first place. Adding an aeration system to the septic tank can often reverse the effects of septic system failure and provide years of useful life without extensive digging and without the initial costs, inconvenience and ongoing expenses of septic tank replacement. Aeration systems like those available from Aero-Stream can increase the efficiency of the decomposition and water treatment process by breaking down waste products in the system and allowing water to return to the natural ecosystem more rapidly and safely.

Benefits of Aerobic Bacteria in Septic Systems

Most septic tanks contain a large percentage of anaerobic bacteria due to lack of oxygen in these underground enclosed spaces. Anaerobic bacteria are capable of breaking down solid wastes in the tank but are far less efficient than aerobic bacteria. Additionally, anaerobic systems can produce potentially dangerous and unpleasant gases during the decomposition process. By contrast, aerobic bacteria do not produce noxious odors during the breakdown of waste material and are much more efficient in breaking down solid wastes and allowing water to return to the environment safely and swiftly.

Promoting the growth of aerobic bacteria can help homeowners avoid replacement costs and the ongoing expenses of these major home construction projects. Simple and easy to install, these hard-working systems offered by Aero-Stream can bring new life to failing septic tanks and ensure the financial health of the homeowner as well.